Last updated: May 3, 2025
Understanding the UV Index in Ndola, Zambia is crucial for protecting your skin and overall health. The UV Index measures the strength of ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, allowing residents to gauge their risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage. In Ndola's subtropical highland climate, UV levels can spike dramatically, particularly between 10 AM and 2 PM, reaching a high of 11—a level that necessitates protective measures. By staying informed about the UV Index, you can enjoy the beautiful Zambian outdoors while minimizing the risks associated with sun exposure and ensuring your skin remains healthy and vibrant.
The UV Index paints an intriguing picture throughout the day. Early morning starts off mild with a maximum of 1 at 07:00. As the sun rises, the intensity ramps up, reaching 2 by 08:00 and then skyrocketing to 5 by 09:00. The peak is at 12:00, where the index hits a striking 11, indicating significant sun exposure risk. This intensity begins to taper post-lunch, with values declining to 10 at 13:00, then gradually falling to 8 at 14:00, and further down to 4 by 15:00. As the evening approaches, the UV Index dwindles to 2 by 16:00, and by 17:00, it drops to 1, finally reaching 0 at 18:00 and 19:00. It's a day where sun protection is crucial during midday hours—stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 5 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 11:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 11 | extreme | 10 min |
| 13:00 | 10 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 15:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV Index levels in the area demonstrate significant seasonal variation, with especially high-risk months occurring from January to April, where the index consistently exceeds 14, categorized as extreme. The peak months of January and February record the highest UV Index at 16 and 17, respectively, resulting in a burn time of only 10 minutes. As summer approaches, from June to August, the UV Index remains elevated, classified as very high to extreme, but with a slightly longer burn time of 15 minutes in June and July. The trend then shifts again as fall approaches, with notable UV levels persisting until November. Consequently, it is crucial for both visitors and residents to prioritize sun safety by minimizing direct sun exposure during peak hours, wearing protective clothing, and regularly applying sunscreen, especially between January and April and during the summer months.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lusaka UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 16 |
| Chingola UVI | 16 | 17 | 15 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 16 |
| Kitwe UVI | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Kabwe UVI | 17 | 17 | 15 | 13 | 11 | 9 | 9 | 11 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 16 |
| Ndola | 16 | 17 | 16 | 14 | 11 | 10 | 10 | 11 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 16 |